There are 2 types of lights in the lamp. The first one being for the task lamp - the one with the shade. The socket size is a typical one (E26) and takes a maximum 60 watt incandescent light bulb. I use an 11 watt CFL bulb. For energy efficiency, I highly recommend an LED bulb though they are a little pricy. In your order survey, I will ask if you want a CFL bulb included with your lamp.

The light that illuminates the house is a 1.2 watt LED bulb. It is a smaller "candelabra" size socket and is replaceable but only with the same type of LED bulb. It must burn cool so an incandescent or CFL bulb is not appropriate. Your lamp will come with this bulb.

The models are unfinished basswood and should retain their color as long as they are kept in a stable, indoor environment. I've had architectural models made out of basswood for years and they still look the same. But, there still could be some slight variation over time just because wood is a natural material. Just to keep them nice and bright, I would recommend that you dust them carefully as needed with a air can duster (like the one you use for a computer keyboard).

The lamp bases are finished and protected and should not require any maintenance. However, wood does naturally change over time and is sensitive to sun so treat the lamps just like a piece of furniture. You may find that over the long haul you want to refinish it.

Wow! Those models sure bring back memories. We had a few all nighters in design school for our tiny house projects. I can only give a dollar to your project right now, but please keep me posted. I'd love to have more of those in my house in the future.